A Washington Public Library staff member has been appointed to help a new initiative of Governor Terry Branstad. Director Debbie Stanton is one of 15 individuals from across the southeast Iowa Regional STEM Council to serve as part of a statewide public-private partnership whose goal is to raise student achievement in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

The Southeast Regional Council along with the other five Councils in Iowa will work with businesses, education institutions, nonprofit groups, and others to best fit local needs, interest and resources. They will also provide leadership and assistance in starting the Governor’s initiative in every school in the state.